Skin care formulation

ABSTRACT

A method of treating telangiectasia in a subject in need thereof is disclosed. The method includes topically applying to skin of said subject in need of treatment of telangiectasia a composition comprising effective amounts of an alcoholic extract of Centella asiactica leaf and an aqueous extract of Vitis vinifera seed to disrupt endothelial tubes in skin.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/710,097, filed Dec. 10, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/570,719, filed Dec. 14, 2011, and U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/569,034, filed Dec. 9, 2011. The contentsof the referenced applications are incorporated into the presentapplication by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to skin care compositions. Inone particular aspect, the composition includes a combination ofCentella asiatica extract, Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia barkextract, Camellia sinensis extract, and dihydroxymethylchromone. Theinventor discovered that such a combination works especially well intreating telangiectasia or spider veins.

B. Description of Related Art

Telangiectasia can be characterized in a general sense as a dilatationof small blood vessels such as veins that are located near the surfaceof a person's skin. Such dilation can be visible on the skin in the formof red, blue, purple or blotchy skin. In some instances, the dilatedblood vessels present on the skin in a tree branch-like, or a matting orlinear pattern, or spider-web-like appearance, which is commonlyreferred to as “spider veins.” Spider veins, which usually appear on thethighs, lower legs, and face of people, are visually unappealing.

Current methods of treating spider veins include sclerotherapy, surgery,radiofrequency, and laser ablation. Such treatment methods can causedamage to skin, and oftentimes require professional assistance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventor has discovered that a combination of ingredients can beused in a topical skin formulation to treat telangiectasia or spiderveins. In addition to treating the afflicted skin, the composition canalso be beneficial to the skin by, for example, moisturizing the skin.Therefore, the composition does not damage skin as with other treatmentmethods. Further, the composition can be applied by the user without theassistance of a professional.

In one instance, there is disclosed a composition, and a method oftreating telangiectasia comprising topically applying to skin in need oftreatment said composition. The composition can include a combination ofextracts and/or ingredients from Centella asiatica, Vitis vinifera seed,Magnolia bark, Camellia sinensis and/or dihydroxymethylchromone, or anycombination thereof of (e.g., at least 2, 3, or 4 of said extracts), allof said extracts or ingredients, or specific combinations (e.g.,extracts from Centella asiatica and Vitis vinifera seed; extracts fromCentella asiatica and Magnolia bark; extracts from Centella asiatica andCamellia sinensis; extract from Centella asiatica anddihydroxymethylchromone; extracts from Vitis vinifera seed and Magnoliabark; extracts from Vitis vinifera seed and Camellia sinensis; extractfrom Vitis vinifera seed and dihydroxymethylchromone; extracts fromMagnolia bark and Camellia sinensis; extract from Magnolia bark anddihydroxymethylchromone; extract from Camellia sinensis anddihydroxymethylchromone; etc.). In one instance, the Magnolia barkextract is Magnolia grandiflora bark extract that includes honokiol andmagnolol, the Centella asiatica extract includes asiaticoside,madecassic acid, and asiatic acid, the Camellia sinensis extract isCamellia sinensis leaf extract that includes epigallocatechin gallate,and the Vitis vinifera seed extract includes polyphenols.

“A combination of extracts” can include individual extracts that areindividually included into a composition or can include two or moreextracts that are first combined and then added to a composition. Inparticular embodiments, the composition includes all five of saidextracts and ingredients. The inventors discovered that Centellaasiatica extract and Vitis vinifera seed extract can be used to promoteendothelial tube disruption, which can limit and destroy the formationof spider veins. Dihydroxymethylchromone has been found to thicken theepidermis, which can work to reduce the appearance of spider veins.Magnolia bark extract has been found to inhibit angiogenesis, which canlimit vein growth. Camellia sinensis can act as a vasoconstrictor, whichcan push the blood out of the veins, thereby making the spider veinsless apparent on the surface of the skin. The Camellia sinensis extractcan include a polyphenol compound such as epigallocatechin gallate. Theinventors further discovered that when each of these ingredients arecombined, they have a synergistic effect in limiting the formation ofspider veins while also reducing the appearance of existing veins. Thus,the combination works extremely well in treating telangiectasia such asspider veins. In certain aspects, the composition is applied to the skinand remains on the skin for at least 5, 10, 15, 30, or more minutes, or1, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, or 24 hours after topical application. Thecomposition can be applied to telangiectasia (e.g., spider veins) thatis present on facial skin, leg skin, ankle skin, arm skin, etc. Incertain aspects, the composition can be formulated as a cream, gel, orlotion. In some instances, the composition is an emulsion (e.g.,oil-in-water, water-in-oil, hydrophilic-in-hydrophobic,hydrophobic-in-hydrophilic, silicone-in-water, water-in-silicone, etc.).The composition can further include a moisturization agent, a UVabsorbing agent, anti-oxidant, structuring agent, emulsifier, siliconecontaining compound, essential oil, thickening agent, and/or apreservative, such as those disclosed throughout this specification. Thecomposition can include a pharmaceutical ingredient, such as thosedisclosed throughout this specification. In some instances, thecomposition can further include Tambourissa trichophylla leaf extract.The composition can include 0.0001 to 10% by weight (or 0.001, 0.01,0.1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10% by weight or more) of an extractfrom Centella asiatica, 0.0001 to 10% by weight of an extract from Vitisvinifera seed (or 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10% byweight or more), 0.0001 to 10% by weight of an extract from Magnoliabark (or 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10% by weight ormore), 0.0001 to 10% by weight of an extract from Camellia sinensis (or0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10% by weight or more),and/or 0.0001 to 10% by weight of dihydroxymethylchromone (or 0.001,0.01, 0.1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10% by weight or more). In certainaspects, the composition can include 0.0001 to 10% by weight of anextract from Tambourissa trichophylla leaf (or 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10% by weight or more). The Magnolia bark extractcan be Magnolia grandiflora bark extract, Magnolia officinalis barkextract, or Magnolia obovata bark extract. In certain aspects, theextract is from Magnolia grandiflora bark. The Centella asiatica extractcan be a culture from Centella asiatica meristem. The Camellia sinensisextract can be Camellia sinensis leaf extract and/or can include apolyphenol compound such as epigallocatechin gallate. The Centellaasiactica extract, Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract,and/or Camellia sinensis extract can be an aqueous, alcoholic,hydro-alcoholic, or oil-based extract. In particular embodiments, theextracts are an alcoholic extract or a combination of water/alcoholextract.

Also disclosed is a composition, and a method of using the compositionto treat skin comprising topically applying to skin in need of treatmentsaid composition. The composition can include at least one, two, three,four, or all of a Centella asiactica extract, a Vitis vinifera seedextract, a Magnolia bark extract, a Camellia sinensis extract, and/ordihydroxymethylchromone. In some instances, the composition can beapplied to telangiectasiatic skin, skin that presents spider veins,and/or skin that presents varicose veins. In certain aspects, thecomposition can be used to constrict the flow of blood in veins andsmall blood vessels such as arterioles, a capillaries, and/or a venules.The composition could further includes Tambourissa trichophylla leafextract. In one instance the combination of ingredients can be Centellaasiatica extract and Vitis vinifera seed extract. In one instance, thecombination can be Centella asiatica extract and Magnolia bark extract.In one instance, the combination can be Centella asiatica extract andCamellia sinensis extract. In one instance, the combination can beCentella asiatica extract and dihydroxymethylchromone. In one instance,the combination can be Vitis vinifera seed extract and Magnolia barkextract. In one instance, the combination can be Vitis vinifera seedextract and Camellia sinensis extract. In one instance, the combinationcan be Centella Vitis vinifera seed extract and dihydroxymethylchromone.In one instance, the combination can be Magnolia bark extract andCamellia sinensis extract. In one instance, the combination can beMagnolia bark extract and dihydroxymethylchromone. In one instance thecombination can be Camellia sinensis extract anddihydroxymethylchromone. Other aspects of the composition can be similarto that as described in the paragraph directly above this paragraph,which is incorporated by reference (e.g., amount of ingredients,additional ingredients, formulation of composition, specific extracts,etc.). In one instance, the Magnolia bark extract is Magnoliagrandiflora bark extract that includes honokiol and magnolol, theCentella asiatica extract includes asiaticoside, madecassic acid, andasiatic acid, the Camellia sinensis extract is Camellia sinensis leafextract that includes epigallocatechin gallate, and the Vitis viniferaseed extract includes polyphenols.

The compositions of the present invention can be formulated into topicalskin care compositions. The compositions can be cosmetic compositions.In other aspects, the compositions can be included in a cosmeticvehicle. Non-limiting examples of cosmetic vehicles are disclosed inother sections of this specification and are known to those of skill inthe art. Examples of cosmetic vehicles include emulsions (e.g.,oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions), creams, lotions, solutions(e.g., aqueous or hydro-alcoholic solutions), anhydrous bases (e.g.,lipstick or a powder), gels, and ointments. In other non-limitingembodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be includedin anti-aging, cleansing, or moisturizing products. The compositions canalso be formulated for topical skin application at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, or more times a day during use. In other aspects of the presentinvention, compositions can be storage stable or color stable, or both.It is also contemplated that the viscosity of the composition can beselected to achieve a desired result (e.g., depending on the type ofcomposition desired, the viscosity of such composition can be from about1 cps to well over 1 million cps or any range or integer derivabletherein (e.g., 2 cps, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70,80, 90, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000,4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 20000, 30000, 40000, 50000,60000, 70000, 80000, 90000, 100000, 200000, 300000, 400000, 500000,600000, 700000, 800000, 900000, 1000000 cps, etc., as measured on aBrookfield Viscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5 rpm at 25° C.). Thecompositions in non-limiting aspects can have a pH of about 6 to about9. In other aspects, the pH can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,12, 13, or 14. Compositions of the present invention can have UVA andUVB absorption properties. The compositions can have an sun protectionfactor (SPF) of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 25,30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, or more, or any integer or derivativetherein. The compositions can be sunscreen lotions, sprays, or creams.In particular aspects, the compositions can be oil-free, substantiallyanhydrous, and/or anhydrous. Other aspects include compositions havingwater.

The compositions of the present invention can also include any one of,any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients:water, a chelating agent, a moisturizing agent, a preservative, athickening agent, a silicone containing compound, an essential oil, astructuring agent, a vitamin, a pharmaceutical ingredient, or anantioxidant, or any combination of such ingredients or mixtures of suchingredients. In certain aspects, the composition can include at leasttwo, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or all of theseadditional ingredients identified in the previous sentence. Non-limitingexamples of these additional ingredients are identified throughout thisspecification and are incorporated into this section by reference. Theamounts of such ingredients can range from 0.0001% to 99.9% by weight orvolume of the composition, or any integer or range in between asdisclosed in other sections of this specification, which areincorporated into this paragraph by reference.

The compositions can also be used to treat or prevent a variety of skinconditions other than telangiectasia. For instance, the compositions canbe used to treat or prevent a fine line or wrinkle, dry or flaky skin,erythema, sensitive skin, or inflamed skin. In particular aspects,erythema, sensitive skin, or inflamed skin is caused by skin sunburn,electrical treatments of skin, skin burns, contact allergies, systemicallergies, skin toxicity, exercise, insect stings, bacterial infection,viral infection, fungal infection, protozoa infection, massage, orwindburn. In other aspects, the following additional skin conditions canbe treated or prevented in accordance with the methods and compositionsdisclosed throughout the specification and claims: pruritus, lentigo,age spots, senile purpura, keratosis, melasma, blotches, nodules, sundamaged skin, dermatitis (including, but not limited to seborrheicdermatitis, nummular dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis,exfoliative dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis),psoriasis, folliculitis, rosacea, acne, impetigo, erysipelas,erythrasma, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions. In certainnon-limiting aspects, the skin condition can be caused by exposure to UVlight, age, irradiation, chronic sun exposure, environmental pollutants,air pollution, wind, cold, heat, chemicals, disease pathologies,smoking, or lack of nutrition. The skin can be facial skin or non-facialskin (e.g., arms, legs, hands, chest, back, feet, etc.). The method canfurther comprise identifying a person in need of skin treatment. Theperson can be a male or female. The age of the person can be at least 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65,70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or more years old, or any range derivabletherein. The method can also include topically applying an amounteffective to: increase the stratum corneum turnover rate of the skin;increase collagen synthesis in fibroblasts; increase cellularanti-oxidant defense mechanisms (e.g., exogenous additions ofanti-oxidants can bolster, replenish, or prevent the loss of cellularantioxidants such as catalase and glutathione in skin cells (e.g.,keratinocytes, melanocytes, langerhans cells, etc.) which will reduce orprevent oxidative damage to the skin, cellular, proteins, and lipids);inhibit melanin production in melanocytes; reduce or prevent oxidativedamage to skin (including reducing the amount lipid peroxides and/orprotein oxidation in the skin).

Also disclosed is a method of reducing the appearance of uneven skintone comprising topically applying any one of the compositions disclosedthroughout the specification and claims to skin having an uneven skintone, wherein topical application of the composition to uneven skin tonereduces the appearance of uneven skin tone. In one instance, thecomposition includes dihydroxymethylchromone Centella asiactica extract,Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract, and/or Camelliasinensis extract.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a method of reducing painassociated with erythema, sensitive skin, or inflamed skin, comprisingtopically applying any one of the compositions disclosed throughout thespecification and claims to erythemic, sensitive, or inflamed skin,wherein topical application of the composition to erythemic, sensitive,or inflamed skin reduces the pain associated with erythema, sensitiveskin, or inflamed skin. In one instance, the composition includesdihydroxymethylchromone Centella asiactica extract, Vitis vinifera seedextract, Magnolia bark extract, and/or Camellia sinensis extract.

In still another aspect, there is disclosed a method of reducing theappearance of symptoms associated with erythema, sensitive skin, orinflamed skin, comprising topically applying any one of the compositionsdisclosed throughout the specification and claims erythemic, sensitive,or inflamed skin, wherein topical application of the composition toerythemic, sensitive, or inflamed skin reduces the appearance ofsymptoms associated with erythema, sensitive skin, or inflamed skin. Inone instance, the composition includes dihydroxymethylchromone Centellaasiactica extract, Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract,and/or Camellia sinensis extract.

In other aspect, there is disclosed a method of increasing collagenproduction in a skin cell comprising topically applying any one of thecompositions disclosed throughout the specification and claims to a skincell in need of collagen production, wherein the topical application ofthe composition to the skin cell increases collagen production in theskin cell. Non-limiting examples of such cells include human epidermalkeratinocyte, human fibroblast dermal cell, human melanocytes, threedimensional human cell-derived in vitro tissue equivalents comprisinghuman keratinocytes, human fibroblasts, or human melanocytes, or anycombination thereof (e.g., combination of human keratinocytes and humanfibroblasts or a combination of human keratinocytes and humanmelanocytes). In one instance, the composition includesdihydroxymethylchromone Centella asiactica extract, Vitis vinifera seedextract, Magnolia bark extract, and/or Camellia sinensis extract.

Also disclosed is a method of lightening skin or evening skin tonecomprising applying any one of the compositions disclosed throughout thespecification and claims to skin. The method can further compriseidentify a person in need of lightening skin or evening skin tone. Themethods can further include inhibiting melanogenesis in a skin cell,inhibiting tyrosinase or tyrosinase synthesis in a skin cell, orinhibiting melanin transport to keratinocytes in a skin cell. Thecomposition can act as an alpha melanin stimulatory hormone antagonist.The composition can even out pigmentation of the skin. In non-limitingaspect, lightening skin can include reducing the appearance of an agespot, a skin discoloration, or a freckle by topical application of thecomposition to skin having an age spot, skin discoloration, a freckle,etc. In one instance, the composition includes dihydroxymethylchromoneCentella asiactica extract, Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia barkextract, and/or Camellia sinensis extract.

Also disclosed is a method of treating hyperpigmentation comprisingapplying any one of the compositions disclosed throughout thespecification and claims to skin. The method can also compriseidentifying a person in need of treating hyperpigmentation. Additionalmethods contemplated by the inventor include methods for reducing theappearance of an age spot, a skin discoloration, or a freckle, reducingor preventing the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles in skin, orincreasing the firmness of skin. In one instance, the compositionincludes dihydroxymethylchromone Centella asiactica extract, Vitisvinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract, and/or Camellia sinensisextract.

Also contemplated are kits that include any one of the compositionsdisclosed throughout the specification and claims. In certainembodiments, the composition is comprised in a container. The containercan be a bottle, dispenser, or package. The container can dispense apre-determined amount of the composition. In certain aspects, thecompositions is dispensed in a spray, dollop, or liquid. The containercan include indicia on its surface. The indicia can be a word, anabbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

Also contemplated is a product comprising a composition of the presentinvention. In non-limiting aspects, the product can be a cosmeticproduct. The cosmetic product can be those described in other sectionsof this specification or those known to a person of skill in the art.Non-limiting examples of products include a moisturizer, a cream, alotion, a skin softener, a foundation, a night cream, a lipstick, acleanser, a toner, a sunscreen, a mask, or an anti-aging product.

The compositions and methods for their use can “comprise,” “consistessentially of,” or “consist of” any of the ingredients disclosedthroughout the specification. For purposes of consisting essentially ofmeans that inclusion of additional ingredients in the compositions donot materially affect the beneficial properties of the compositions fortreating telangiectasia or spider veins. For instance, if a composition“consists essentially of” any one of, any combination of, or 2, 3, 4, orall 5 of dihydroxymethylchromone, Centella asiactica extract, Vitisvinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract, and Camellia sinensisextract, said composition excludes any ingredients that would materiallyaffect the beneficial properties of the compositions for treatingtelangiectasia or spider veins. For instance, ingredients that can actas a vasodilator could exasperate the appearance of telangiectasia orspider veins rather than treating said condition.

It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specificationcan be implemented with respect to any method or composition of theinvention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the inventioncan be used to achieve methods of the invention.

In one embodiment, compositions of the present invention can bepharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant. “Pharmaceutically elegant”and/or “cosmetically elegant” describes a composition that hasparticular tactile properties which feel pleasant on the skin (e.g.,compositions that are not too watery or greasy, compositions that have asilky texture, compositions that are non-tacky or sticky, etc.).Pharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant can also relate to thecreaminess or lubricity properties of the composition or to the moistureretaining properties of the composition.

“Topical application” means to apply or spread a composition onto thesurface of keratinous tissue. “Topical skin composition” includescompositions suitable for topical application on keratinous tissue. Suchcompositions are typically dermatologically-acceptable in that they donot have undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergicresponse, and the like, when applied to skin. Topical skin carecompositions of the present invention can have a selected viscosity toavoid significant dripping or pooling after application to skin.

“Keratinous tissue” includes keratin-containing layers disposed as theoutermost protective covering of mammals and includes, but is notlimited to, skin, hair and nails.

A “non-volatile oil” includes those substance that will not evaporate atordinary or room temperature.

The terms “mixture,” “mix,” and “mixing” or any variants of these terms,when used in the claims and/or specification includes, stirring,blending, dispersing, milling, homogenizing, and other similar methods.The mixing of the components or ingredients of the disclosedcompositions can form into a solution. In other embodiments, themixtures may not form a solution. The ingredients/components can alsoexist as undissolved colloidal suspensions.

The term “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to asunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limitingembodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%,more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

The term “substantially” and its variations are defined as being largelybut not necessarily wholly what is specified as understood by one ofordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodimentsubstantially refers to ranges within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, orwithin 0.5%.

The terms “inhibiting,” “reducing,” “treating,” or any variation ofthese terms, when used in the claims and/or the specification includesany measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desiredresult.

The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and/orclaims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intendedresult.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term“comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” butit is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,”and “one or more than one.”

As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (andany form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having”(and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and anyform of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing”(and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) areinclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecitedelements or method steps.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description. It should beunderstood, however, that the detailed description and the examples,while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by wayof illustration only. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Telangiectasiasic skin is visually unappealing. It can result in dilatedblood vessels (e.g., veins) near the surface of skin, which presents asred, purple, and/or blue lines on skin, oftentimes referred to as“spider veins.” The lines can measure less than 1-3 mm in width andseveral millimeters to centimeters in length. Telangiectasias is commonin healthy people, and can be caused by overexposure to sun or aging. Itoftentimes afflicts the nose, cheeks, and chin on a person's face or thethighs, below the knees, and on the ankles, all of which are highlyvisible areas of the human body.

Instead of using the traditional procedures such as sclerotherapy,surgery, radiofrequency, and laser ablation, the inventor discovered acombination of ingredients that, when combined, work to reduce theappearance of Telangiectasias such as spider veins while also providingadditional benefits to skin. These and other non-limiting aspects of thepresent invention are described in the following subsections.

A. Active Ingredients

As explained above, topical skin care compositions of the presentinvention can include Centella asiatica extract, Vitis vinifera seedextract, Magnolia bark extract, Camellia sinensis extract, and/ordihydroxymethylchromone. In certain aspects, Tambourissa trichophyllaleaf extract can also be included in the combination. With respect toCentella asiatica extract, the Centella asiatica plant is a smallherbaceous plant that is native to countries such as India, Sri Lanka,Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Melanesia, Papua New Guinea, and otherparts of Asia. Extracts from this plant are commercially available froma wide range of sources (see, e.g., International Cosmetic IngredientDictionary and Handbook, 12^(th) Edition, 2008 (“CTFA”), Volume 1, pages458-60, which is incorporated by reference). In particular embodiments,the whole plant extract can be used (see pages 458-59 of the CTFA). Asource that was used in the Examples was obtained from Bayer SanteFamiliale SAS (France) under the trade name TECA (Titrated Extract ofCentella Asiatica), which includes asiaticoside, madecassic acid, andasiatic acid.

As for Vitis vinifera seed extract, the Vitis vinifera plant is a vinethat is native to the Mediterranean region, central Europe, andsouthwestern Asia. The extract is obtained from the seed of said plant.Further, Vitis vinifera seed extract is commercially available from awide range of sources (see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 3, pages 2891-93, whichis incorporated by reference). This extract can include polyphenols suchas catechin and epicatechin and flaconoids.

Turning to Magnolia bark extract, the Magnolia plant is native to NorthAmerica, China, Japan, and Russia. It is a large desiduous tree withbrown bark. In particular aspects, the Magnolia bark is from Magnoliagrandiflora, which is native to North America. In other aspects, it isfrom Magnolia officinalis, which is also native to China. In otherinstances, it can be from Magnolia obovata, which is native to Japan andRussia. The extract is obtained from the bark of the Magnolia plant,such as from Magnolia grandiflora, Magnolia officinalis, or Magnoliaobovata. It can include compounds such as magnolol and honokiol.Magnolia bark extract is commercially available from a wide range ofsources (see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 2, page 1500, which is incorporated byreference). A source that was used in the Examples was obtained from DSM(North America) and includes extract from the bark of Magnoliagrandiflora, which includes magnolol and honokiol.

With respect to Camellia sinensis extract, the Camellia sinensis plantis native to China, and is a flowing plant. The extract can be obtainedfrom the whole plant or parts of said plant. In particular instances, itis from the leaf, root, flower, or seed of said extract and inparticular, the leaf. In particular instances the Camellia sinensisextract can include a polyphenol compound such as epigallocatechingallate. Camellia sinensis extract, whether from the whole plant orparts of said plant, is commercially available from a wide range ofsources (see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 1, pages 400-07, which is incorporatedby reference). A source that was used in the Examples was obtained fromDSM (North America) and includes epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)—it issold under the trade name Teavigo®.

Turning to Dihydroxymethylchromone (DHMC), it has the following chemicalstructure:

It is commercially available from EMD Chemicals (USA) under the tradename RonaCare® Luremin™. This is the source that was used in theExamples.

As for Tambourissa trichophylla leaf extract, Tambourissa trichophyllais a plant that is native to Madagascar. The extract is obtained fromthe leaf. Tambourissa trichophylla leaf extract is commerciallyavailable from a wide variety of sources (see, e.g., CTFA, Volume 3,page 2713, which is incorporated by reference).

In addition to the commercially availability of the extracts identifiedabove, said extracts can be produced by obtaining the correspondingplant or portion thereof to produce the extract by extraction methodswhich are known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For instance, aperson of ordinary skill in the art would be able to isolate any one ofthe extracts identified above from the whole plant or parts of thecorresponding plant by using any suitable method known in the art. Inone non-limiting example, the plant (or any part of the plant) can bedisrupted by mechanical means which results in a puree. The puree isthen processed to be substantially free of impurities or undesiredsolids. The puree can then be poured into a shallow vessel and quicklyexposed to low temperature, i.e., flash frozen, for example at −20° C.or lower, preferably under a vacuum for removal of water content(lyophilization). The resultant extract can then be used in thecompositions of the present invention.

In other aspects, aqueous, alcoholic, aqueous-alcoholic, or oil basedextraction techniques, or combinations thereof, can be used on the wholeplant or any part thereof of to produce an extract. In such a process,the desired part of the plant or the whole plant is crushed up (e.g.,blender) and then subjected to a desired solvent (e.g., water, alcohol,water/alcohol, or oil based solvents) to obtain the desired extract. Theextract can then be stored in liquid form, lyophilized, or subject tofurther processing techniques (e.g., heating, cooling, etc.). Extractionprocesses are well-known to those having ordinary skill in the extractfield (e.g., maceration, infusion, percolation, digestion, decoction,hot continuous extraction, aqueous-alcoholic extract, counter currentextract, microwave assisted extraction, ultrasound extraction,supercritical fluid extracts, phytonic extract (e.g., withhydro-flouro-carbon solvents), etc.

B. Compositions of the Present Invention

It is contemplated that the compositions of the present invention caninclude any of the skin actives or any combination thereof describedthroughout this specification. In particular aspects, the skin activescan be combined (e.g., Centella asiactica, Vitis vinifera seed, Magnoliabark, Camellia sinensis, and dihydroxymethylchromone). The compositionscan include any number of combinations of additional ingredientsdescribed throughout this specification. The concentrations of the anyingredient within the compositions can vary. In non-limitingembodiments, for example, the compositions can comprise, consistingessentially of, or consist of, in their final form, for example, atleast about 0.0001%, 0.0002%, 0.0003%, 0.0004%, 0.0005%, 0.0006%,0.0007%, 0.0008%, 0.0009%, 0.0010%, 0.0011%, 0.0012%, 0.0013%, 0.0014%,0.0015%, 0.0016%, 0.0017%, 0.0018%, 0.0019%, 0.0020%, 0.0021%, 0.0022%,0.0023%, 0.0024%, 0.0025%, 0.0026%, 0.0027%, 0.0028%, 0.0029%, 0.0030%,0.0031%, 0.0032%, 0.0033%, 0.0034%, 0.0035%, 0.0036%, 0.0037%, 0.0038%,0.0039%, 0.0040%, 0.0041%, 0.0042%, 0.0043%, 0.0044%, 0.0045%, 0.0046%,0.0047%, 0.0048%, 0.0049%, 0.0050%, 0.0051%, 0.0052%, 0.0053%, 0.0054%,0.0055%, 0.0056%, 0.0057%, 0.0058%, 0.0059%, 0.0060%, 0.0061%, 0.0062%,0.0063%, 0.0064%, 0.0065%, 0.0066%, 0.0067%, 0.0068%, 0.0069%, 0.0070%,0.0071%, 0.0072%, 0.0073%, 0.0074%, 0.0075%, 0.0076%, 0.0077%, 0.0078%,0.0079%, 0.0080%, 0.0081%, 0.0082%, 0.0083%, 0.0084%, 0.0085%, 0.0086%,0.0087%, 0.0088%, 0.0089%, 0.0090%, 0.0091%, 0.0092%, 0.0093%, 0.0094%,0.0095%, 0.0096%, 0.0097%, 0.0098%, 0.0099%, 0.0100%, 0.0200%, 0.0250%,0.0275%, 0.0300%, 0.0325%, 0.0350%, 0.0375%, 0.0400%, 0.0425%, 0.0450%,0.0475%, 0.0500%, 0.0525%, 0.0550%, 0.0575%, 0.0600%, 0.0625%, 0.0650%,0.0675%, 0.0700%, 0.0725%, 0.0750%, 0.0775%, 0.0800%, 0.0825%, 0.0850%,0.0875%, 0.0900%, 0.0925%, 0.0950%, 0.0975%, 0.1000%, 0.1250%, 0.1500%,0.1750%, 0.2000%, 0.2250%, 0.2500%, 0.2750%, 0.3000%, 0.3250%, 0.3500%,0.3750%, 0.4000%, 0.4250%, 0.4500%, 0.4750%, 0.5000%, 0.5250%, 0.0550%,0.5750%, 0.6000%, 0.6250%, 0.6500%, 0.6750%, 0.7000%, 0.7250%, 0.7500%,0.7750%, 0.8000%, 0.8250%, 0.8500%, 0.8750%, 0.9000%, 0.9250%, 0.9500%,0.9750%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%,2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%, 3.1%,3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%,4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5.0%, 5.1%, 5.2%, 5.3%, 5.4%, 5.5%,5.6%, 5.7%, 5.8%, 5.9%, 6.0%, 6.1%, 6.2%, 6.3%, 6.4%, 6.5%, 6.6%, 6.7%,6.8%, 6.9%, 7.0%, 7.1%, 7.2%, 7.3%, 7.4%, 7.5%, 7.6%, 7.7%, 7.8%, 7.9%,8.0%, 8.1%, 8.2%, 8.3%, 8.4%, 8.5%, 8.6%, 8.7%, 8.8%, 8.9%, 9.0%, 9.1%,9.2%, 9.3%, 9.4%, 9.5%, 9.6%, 9.7%, 9.8%, 9.9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%,15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%,29%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or99% or any range derivable therein, of at least one of the ingredientsthat are mentioned throughout the specification and claims. Innon-limiting aspects, the percentage can be calculated by weight orvolume of the total composition. A person of ordinary skill in the artwould understand that the concentrations can vary depending on theaddition, substitution, and/or subtraction of ingredients in a givencomposition.

The disclosed compositions of the present invention may also includevarious antioxidants to retard oxidation of one or more components.Additionally, the prevention of the action of microorganisms can bebrought about by preservatives such as various antibacterial andantifungal agents, including but not limited to parabens (e.g.,methylparabens, propylparabens), chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid,thimerosal or combinations thereof.

C. Vehicles

The compositions of the present invention can be incorporated into alltypes of vehicles. Non-limiting examples of suitable vehicles includeemulsions (e.g., water-in-oil, water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water,silicone-in-water, water-in-silicone, oil-in-water-in-oil,oil-in-water-in-silicone emulsions), creams, lotions, solutions (bothaqueous and hydro-alcoholic), anhydrous bases (such as lipsticks andpowders), gels, and ointments or by other method or any combination ofthe forgoing as would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art(Remington's, 1990). Variations and other appropriate vehicles will beapparent to the skilled artisan and are appropriate for use in thepresent invention. In certain aspects, it is important that theconcentrations and combinations of the compounds, ingredients, andagents be selected in such a way that the combinations are chemicallycompatible and do not form complexes which precipitate from the finishedproduct.

It is also contemplated that ingredients identified throughout thisspecification, including but not limited to Centella asiactica, Vitisvinifera seed, Magnolia bark, Camellia sinensis, ordihydroxymethylchromone, or any combinations thereof, can beindividually or combinatorially encapsulated for delivery to a targetarea such as skin. Non-limiting examples of encapsulation techniquesinclude the use of liposomes, vesicles, and/or nanoparticles (e.g.,biodegradable and non-biodegradable colloidal particles comprisingpolymeric materials in which the ingredient is trapped, encapsulated,and/or absorbed—examples include nanospheres and nanocapsules) that canbe used as delivery vehicles to deliver the ingredient to skin (see,e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,387,398; 6,203,802; 5,411,744; Kreuter 1998).

D. Cosmetic Products and Articles of Manufacture

The composition of the present invention can also be used in manycosmetic products including, but not limited to, sunscreen products,sunless skin tanning products, hair products, finger nail products,moisturizing creams, skin benefit creams and lotions, softeners, daylotions, gels, ointments, foundations, night creams, lipsticks,cleansers, toners, masks, or other known cosmetic products orapplications. Additionally, the cosmetic products can be formulated asleave-on or rinse-off products. In certain aspects, the compositions ofthe present invention are stand-alone products.

E. Additional Ingredients

In addition to the Centella asiactica, Vitis vinifera seed, Magnoliabark, and Camellia sinensis, and dihydroxymethylchromone ingredientsdisclosed throughout this specification, compositions of the presentinvention can include additional ingredients such as cosmeticingredients and pharmaceutical active ingredients. Non-limiting examplesof these additional ingredients are described in the followingsubsections.

1. Cosmetic Ingredients

The CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook (2004and 2008) describes a wide variety of non-limiting cosmetic ingredientsthat can be used in the context of the present invention. Examples ofthese ingredient classes include: fragrances (artificial and natural),dyes and color ingredients (e.g., Blue 1, Blue 1 Lake, Red 40, titaniumdioxide, D&C blue no. 4, D&C green no. 5, D&C orange no. 4, D&C red no.17, D&C red no. 33, D&C violet no. 2, D&C yellow no. 10, and D&C yellowno. 11), adsorbents, lubricants, solvents, moisturizers (including,e.g., emollients, humectants, film formers, occlusive agents, and agentsthat affect the natural moisturization mechanisms of the skin),water-repellants, UV absorbers (physical and chemical absorbers such asparaaminobenzoic acid (“PABA”) and corresponding PABA derivatives,titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, etc.), essential oils, vitamins (e.g. A,B, C, D, E, and K), trace metals (e.g. zinc, calcium and selenium),anti-irritants (e.g. steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories),botanical extracts (e.g. aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber extract, ginkgobiloba, ginseng, and rosemary), anti-microbial agents, antioxidants(e.g., BHT and tocopherol), chelating agents (e.g., disodium EDTA andtetrasodium EDTA), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben andpropylparaben), pH adjusters (e.g., sodium hydroxide and citric acid),absorbents (e.g., aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, kaolin, corn starch,oat starch, cyclodextrin, talc, and zeolite), skin bleaching andlightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone and niacinamide lactate),humectants (e.g., sorbitol, urea, and manitol), exfoliants,waterproofing agents (e.g., magnesium/aluminum hydroxide stearate), skinconditioning agents (e.g., aloe extracts, allantoin, bisabolol,ceramides, dimethicone, hyaluronic acid, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate).Non-limiting examples of some of these ingredients are provided in thefollowing subsections.

a. UV Absorption Agents

UV absorption agents that can be used in combination with thecompositions of the present invention include chemical and physicalsunblocks. Non-limiting examples of chemical sunblocks that can be usedinclude para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (glyceryl PABA,amyldimethyl PABA and octyldimethyl PABA), butyl PABA, ethyl PABA, ethyldihydroxypropyl PABA, benzophenones (oxybenzone, sulisobenzone,benzophenone, and benzophenone-1 through 12), cinnamates (octylmethoxycinnamate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, octylmethoxy cinnamate,cinoxate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, DEA-methoxycinnamate, ethyldiisopropylcinnamate, glyceryl octanoate dimethoxycinnamate and ethylmethoxycinnamate), cinnamate esters, salicylates (homomethyl salicylate,benzyl salicylate, glycol salicylate, isopropylbenzyl salicylate, etc.),anthranilates, ethyl urocanate, homosalate, octisalate, dibenzoylmethanederivatives (e.g., avobenzone), octocrylene, octyl triazone, digalloytrioleate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, lawsone with dihydroxyacetone,ethylhexyl triazone, dioctyl butamido triazone, benzylidene malonatepolysiloxane, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, disodium phenyldibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexylbenzoate, bis diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl benzoate, bisbenzoxazoylphenyl ethylhexylimino triazine, drometrizole trisiloxane,methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutyiphenol, andbis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine,4-methylbenzylidenecamphor, and isopentyl 4-methoxycinnamate.Non-limiting examples of physical sunblocks include, kaolin, talc,petrolatum and metal oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide).

b. Moisturizing Agents

Non-limiting examples of moisturizing agents that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include amino acids, chondroitinsulfate, diglycerin, erythritol, fructose, glucose, glycerin, glycerolpolymers, glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, honey, hyaluronic acid,hydrogenated honey, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, inositol, lactitol,maltitol, maltose, mannitol, natural moisturizing factor, PEG-15butanediol, polyglyceryl sorbitol, salts of pyrollidone carboxylic acid,potassium PCA, propylene glycol, sodium glucuronate, sodium PCA,sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, urea, and xylitol.

Other examples include acetylated lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol,alanine, algae extract, aloe barbadensis, aloe-barbadensis extract, aloebarbadensis gel, althea officinalis extract, apricot (prunus armeniaca)kernel oil, arginine, arginine aspartate, arnica montana extract,aspartic acid, avocado (persea gratissima) oil, barrier sphingolipids,butyl alcohol, beeswax, behenyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, birch (betulaalba) bark extract, borage (borago officinalis) extract, butcherbroom(ruscus aculeatus) extract, butylene glycol, calendula officinalisextract, calendula officinalis oil, candelilla (euphorbia cerifera) wax,canola oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cardamon (elettariacardamomum) oil, carnauba (copernicia cerifera) wax, carrot (daucuscarota sativa) oil, castor (ricinus communis) oil, ceramides, ceresin,ceteareth-5, ceteareth-12, ceteareth-20, cetearyl octanoate, ceteth-20,ceteth-24, cetyl acetate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl palmitate, chamomile(anthemis nobilis) oil, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, cholesterylhydroxystearate, citric acid, clary (salvia sclarea) oil, cocoa(theobroma cacao) butter, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut (cocosnucifera) oil, collagen, collagen amino acids, corn (zea mays) oil,fatty acids, decyl oleate, dimethicone copolyol, dimethiconol, dioctyladipate, dioctyl succinate, dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate,DNA, erythritol, ethoxydiglycol, ethyl linoleate, eucalyptus globulusoil, evening primrose (oenothera biennis) oil, fatty acids, geraniummaculatum oil, glucosamine, glucose glutamate, glutamic acid,glycereth-26, glycerin, glycerol, glyceryl distearate, glycerylhydroxystearate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl linoleate, glycerylmyristate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE,glycine, glycol stearate, glycol stearate SE, glycosaminoglycans, grape(vitis vinifera) seed oil, hazel (corylus americana) nut oil, hazel(corylus avellana) nut oil, hexylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, hybridsafflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, hydrogenated castor oil,hydrogenated coco-glycerides, hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenatedlanolin, hydrogenated lecithin, hydrogenated palm glyceride,hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, hydrogenatedtallow glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrolyzed collagen,hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, hydrolyzed keratin,hydrolyzed soy protein, hydroxylated lanolin, hydroxyproline, isocetylstearate, isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isodecyl oleate, isopropylisostearate, isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, isopropylpalmitate, isopropyl stearate, isostearamide DEA, isostearic acid,isostearyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanoate, jasmine (jasminumofficinale) oil, jojoba (buxus chinensis) oil, kelp, kukui (aleuritesmoluccana) nut oil, lactamide MEA, laneth-16, laneth-10 acetate,lanolin, lanolin acid, lanolin alcohol, lanolin oil, lanolin wax,lavender (lavandula angustifolia) oil, lecithin, lemon (citrus medicalimonum) oil, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, macadamia ternifolia nutoil, maltitol, matricaria (chamomilla recutita) oil, methyl glucosesesquistearate, methylsilanol PCA, mineral oil, mink oil, mortierellaoil, myristyl lactate, myristyl myristate, myristyl propionate,neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, octyldodecanol, octyldodecylmyristate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, octyl hydroxystearate, octylpalmitate, octyl salicylate, octyl stearate, oleic acid, olive (oleaeuropaea) oil, orange (citrus aurantium dulcis) oil, palm (elaeisguineensis) oil, palmitic acid, pantethine, panthenol, panthenyl ethylether, paraffin, PCA, peach (prunus persica) kernel oil, peanut (arachishypogaea) oil, PEG-8 C12-18 ester, PEG-15 cocamine, PEG-150 distearate,PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-5 glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 glycerylstearate, PEG-7 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate,PEG40 sorbitan peroleate, PEG-5 soy sterol, PEG-10 soy sterol, PEG-2stearate, PEG-8 stearate, PEG-20 stearate, PEG-32 stearate, PEG40stearate, PEG-50 stearate, PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate,pentadecalactone, peppermint (mentha piperita) oil, petrolatum,phospholipids, polyamino sugar condensate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate,polyquaternium-24, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60,polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85, potassium myristate, potassiumpalmitate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate,propylene glycol dioctanoate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propyleneglycol laurate, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol stearate SE,PVP, pyridoxine dipalmitate, retinol, retinyl palmitate, rice (oryzasativa) bran oil, RNA, rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) oil, rose oil,safflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, sage (salvia officinalis) oil,sandalwood (santalum album) oil, serine, serum protein, sesame (sesamumindicum) oil, shea butter (butyrospermum parkii), silk powder, sodiumchondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium lactate, sodiumpalmitate, sodium PCA, sodium polyglutamate, soluble collagen, sorbitanlaurate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan sesquioleate,sorbitan stearate, sorbitol, soybean (glycine soja) oil, sphingolipids,squalane, squalene, stearamide MEA-stearate, stearic acid, stearoxydimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, stearyl alcohol, stearylglycyrrhetinate, stearyl heptanoate, stearyl stearate, sunflower(helianthus annuus) seed oil, sweet almond (prunus amygdalus dulcis)oil, synthetic beeswax, tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryllinoleate, tribehenin, tridecyl neopentanoate, tridecyl stearate,triethanolamine, tristearin, urea, vegetable oil, water, waxes, wheat(triticum vulgare) germ oil, and ylang ylang (cananga odorata) oil.

c. Antioxidants

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include acetyl cysteine, ascorbicacid polypeptide, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanolpectinate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, BHA, BHT, t-butylhydroquinone, cysteine, cysteine HCl, diamylhydroquinone,di-t-butylhydroquinone, dicetyl thiodipropionate, dioleyl tocopherylmethylsilanol, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, distearyl thiodipropionate,ditridecyl thiodipropionate, dodecyl gallate, erythorbic acid, esters ofascorbic acid, ethyl ferulate, ferulic acid, gallic acid esters,hydroquinone, isooctyl thioglycolate, kojic acid, magnesium ascorbate,magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, methylsilanol ascorbate, natural botanicalanti-oxidants such as green tea or grape seed extracts,nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, phenylthioglycolic acid,potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, potassium sulfite, propylgallate, quinones, rosmarinic acid, sodium ascorbate, sodium bisulfite,sodium erythorbate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, superoxidedismutase, sodium thioglycolate, sorbityl furfural, thiodiglycol,thiodiglycolamide, thiodiglycolic acid, thioglycolic acid, thiolacticacid, thiosalicylic acid, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12,tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopherylacetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocopheryl nicotinate, tocopherylsuccinate, and tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite.

d. Structuring Agents

In other non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present inventioncan include a structuring agent. Structuring agent, in certain aspects,assist in providing rheological characteristics to the composition tocontribute to the composition's stability. In other aspects, structuringagents can also function as an emulsifier or surfactant. Non-limitingexamples of structuring agents include stearic acid, palmitic acid,stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, stearic acid, palmiticacid, the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol having an averageof about 1 to about 21 ethylene oxide units, the polyethylene glycolether of cetyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 5 ethyleneoxide units, and mixtures thereof.

e. Emulsifiers

In certain aspects of the present invention, the compositions do notinclude an emulsifier. In other aspects, however, the compositions caninclude one or more emulsifiers. Emulsifiers can reduce the interfacialtension between phases and improve the formulation and stability of anemulsion. The emulsifiers can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, andzwitterionic emulsifiers (See McCutcheon's (1986); U.S. Pat. Nos.5,011,681; 4,421,769; 3,755,560). Non-limiting examples include estersof glycerin, esters of propylene glycol, fatty acid esters ofpolyethylene glycol, fatty acid esters of polypropylene glycol, estersof sorbitol, esters of sorbitan anhydrides, carboxylic acid copolymers,esters and ethers of glucose, ethoxylated ethers, ethoxylated alcohols,alkyl phosphates, polyoxyethylene fatty ether phosphates, fatty acidamides, acyl lactylates, soaps, TEA stearate, DEA oleth-3 phosphate,polyethylene glycol 20 sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20),polyethylene glycol 5 soya sterol, steareth-2, steareth-20, steareth-21,ceteareth-20, PPG-2 methyl glucose ether distearate, ceteth-10,polysorbate 80, cetyl phosphate, potassium cetyl phosphate,diethanolamine cetyl phosphate, polysorbate 60, glyceryl stearate,PEG-100 stearate, and mixtures thereof

f. Silicone Containing Compounds

In non-limiting aspects, silicone containing compounds include anymember of a family of polymeric products whose molecular backbone ismade up of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with side groupsattached to the silicon atoms. By varying the —Si—O— chain lengths, sidegroups, and crosslinking, silicones can be synthesized into a widevariety of materials. They can vary in consistency from liquid to gel tosolids.

The silicone containing compounds that can be used in the context of thepresent invention include those described in this specification or thoseknown to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examplesinclude silicone oils (e.g., volatile and non-volatile oils), gels, andsolids. In certain aspects, the silicon containing compounds includes asilicone oils such as a polyorganosiloxane. Non-limiting examples ofpolyorganosiloxanes include dimethicone, cyclomethicone,polysilicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone,stearoxytrimethylsilane, or mixtures of these and other organosiloxanematerials in any given ratio in order to achieve the desired consistencyand application characteristics depending upon the intended application(e.g., to a particular area such as the skin, hair, or eyes). A“volatile silicone oil” includes a silicone oil have a low heat ofvaporization, i.e. normally less than about 50 cal per gram of siliconeoil. Non-limiting examples of volatile silicone oils include:cyclomethicones such as Dow Corning 344 Fluid, Dow Corning 345 Fluid,Dow Corning 244 Fluid, and Dow Corning 245 Fluid, Volatile Silicon 7207(Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn.); low viscosity dimethicones, i.e.dimethicones having a viscosity of about 50 cst or less (e.g.,dimethicones such as Dow Corning 200-0.5 cst Fluid). The Dow CorningFluids are available from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich.Cyclomethicone and dimethicone are described in the Third Edition of theCTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (incorporated by reference) ascyclic dimethyl polysiloxane compounds and a mixture of fully methylatedlinear siloxane polymers end-blocked with trimethylsiloxy units,respectively. Other non-limiting volatile silicone oils that can be usedin the context of the present invention include those available fromGeneral Electric Co., Silicone Products Div., Waterford, N.Y. and SWSSilicones Div. of Stauffer Chemical Co., Adrian, Mich.

g. Essential Oils

Essential oils include oils derived from herbs, flowers, trees, andother plants. Such oils are typically present as tiny droplets betweenthe plant's cells, and can be extracted by several methods known tothose of skill in the art (e.g., steam distilled, enfleurage (i.e.,extraction by using fat), maceration, solvent extraction, or mechanicalpressing). When these types of oils are exposed to air they tend toevaporate (i.e., a volatile oil). As a result, many essential oils arecolorless, but with age they can oxidize and become darker. Essentialoils are insoluble in water and are soluble in alcohol, ether, fixedoils (vegetal), and other organic solvents. Typical physicalcharacteristics found in essential oils include boiling points that varyfrom about 160° to 240° C. and densities ranging from about 0.759 toabout 1.096.

Essential oils typically are named by the plant from which the oil isfound. For example, rose oil or peppermint oil are derived from rose orpeppermint plants, respectively. Non-limiting examples of essential oilsthat can be used in the context of the present invention include sesameoil, macadamia nut oil, tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, Spanish sageoil, Spanish rosemary oil, coriander oil, thyme oil, pimento berriesoil, rose oil, anise oil, balsam oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, cedaroil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, clove oil, cypress oil,eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, geraniumoil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lavender oil,lemon oil, lemongrass oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrhoil, neroli oil, orange oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepperoil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, rosemary oil, sandalwoodoil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, wintergreen oil, orylang ylang. Other essential oils known to those of skill in the art arealso contemplated as being useful within the context of the presentinvention.

h. Thickening Agents

Thickening agents, including thickener or gelling agents, includesubstances which that can increase the viscosity of a composition.Thickeners includes those that can increase the viscosity of acomposition without substantially modifying the efficacy of the activeingredient within the composition. Thickeners can also increase thestability of the compositions of the present invention. In certainaspects of the present invention, thickeners include hydrogenatedpolyisobutene or trihydroxystearin, or a mixture of both.

Non-limiting examples of additional thickening agents that can be usedin the context of the present invention include carboxylic acidpolymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers,polysaccharides, and gums. Examples of carboxylic acid polymers includecrosslinked compounds containing one or more monomers derived fromacrylic acid, substituted acrylic acids, and salts and esters of theseacrylic acids and the substituted acrylic acids, wherein thecrosslinking agent contains two or more carbon-carbon double bonds andis derived from a polyhydric alcohol (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,087,445;4,509,949; 2,798,053; CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary,Fourth edition, 1991, pp. 12 and 80). Examples of commercially availablecarboxylic acid polymers include carbomers, which are homopolymers ofacrylic acid crosslinked with allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerytritol(e.g., Carbopol™ 900 series from B. F. Goodrich).

Non-limiting examples of crosslinked polyacrylate polymers includecationic and nonionic polymers. Examples are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,100,660; 4,849,484; 4,835,206; 4,628,078; 4,599,379.

Non-limiting examples of polyacrylamide polymers (including nonionicpolyacrylamide polymers including substituted branched or unbranchedpolymers) include polyacrylamide, isoparaffin and laureth-7, multi-blockcopolymers of acrylamides and substituted acrylamides with acrylic acidsand substituted acrylic acids.

Non-limiting examples of polysaccharides include cellulose,carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionatecarboxylate, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof. Another example is an alkyl substitutedcellulose where the hydroxy groups of the cellulose polymer ishydroxyalkylated (preferably hydroxy ethylated or hydroxypropylated) toform a hydroxyalkylated cellulose which is then further modified with aC₁₀-C₃₀ straight chain or branched chain alkyl group through an etherlinkage. Typically these polymers are ethers of C₁₀-C₃₀ straight orbranched chain alcohols with hydroxyalkylcelluloses. Other usefulpolysaccharides include scleroglucans comprising a linear chain of (1-3)linked glucose units with a (1-6) linked glucose every three unit.

Non-limiting examples of gums that can be used with the presentinvention include acacia, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium alginate,amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine,carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guarhydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hectorite, hyaluroinic acid, hydratedsilica, hydroxypropyl chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar, karaya gum, kelp,locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan,propylene glycol alginate, sclerotium gum, sodium carboyxmethyl dextran,sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and mixtures thereof.

i. Preservatives

Non-limiting examples of preservatives that can be used in the contextof the present invention include quaternary ammonium preservatives suchas polyquaternium-1 and benzalkonium halides (e.g., benzalkoniumchloride (“BAC”) and benzalkonium bromide), parabens (e.g.,methylparabens and propylparabens), phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol,chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, thimerosal or combinations thereof.2. Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Pharmaceutical active agents are also contemplated as being useful withthe compositions of the present invention. Non-limiting examples ofpharmaceutical active agents include anti-acne agents, agents used totreat rosacea, analgesics, anesthetics, anorectals, antihistamines,anti-inflammatory agents including non-steroidal anti-inflammatorydrugs, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimicrobials, anti-canceractives, scabicides, pediculicides, antineoplastics, antiperspirants,antipruritics, antipsoriatic agents, antiseborrheic agents, biologicallyactive proteins and peptides, burn treatment agents, cauterizing agents,depigmenting agents, depilatories, diaper rash treatment agents,enzymes, hair growth stimulants, hair growth retardants including DFMOand its salts and analogs, hemostatics, kerotolytics, canker soretreatment agents, cold sore treatment agents, dental and periodontaltreatment agents, photosensitizing actives, skin protectant/barrieragents, steroids including hormones and corticosteroids, sunburntreatment agents, sunscreens, transdermal actives, nasal actives,vaginal actives, wart treatment agents, wound treatment agents, woundhealing agents, etc.

F. Kits

Kits are also contemplated as being used in certain aspects of thepresent invention. For instance, compositions of the present inventioncan be included in a kit. A kit can include a container. Containers caninclude a bottle, a metal tube, a laminate tube, a plastic tube, adispenser, a pressurized container, a barrier container, a package, acompartment, a lipstick container, a compact container, cosmetic pansthat can hold cosmetic compositions, or other types of containers suchas injection or blow-molded plastic containers into which thedispersions or compositions or desired bottles, dispensers, or packagesare retained. The kit and/or container can include indicia on itssurface. The indicia, for example, can be a word, a phrase, anabbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

The containers can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition.In other embodiments, the container can be squeezed (e.g., metal,laminate, or plastic tube) to dispense a desired amount of thecomposition. The composition can be dispensed as a spray, an aerosol, aliquid, a fluid, or a semi-solid. The containers can have spray, pump,or squeeze mechanisms. A kit can also include instructions for employingthe kit components as well the use of any other compositions included inthe container. Instructions can include an explanation of how to apply,use, and maintain the compositions.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are included to demonstrate certain non-limitingaspects of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill inthe art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which followrepresent techniques discovered by the inventor to function well in thepractice of the invention. However, those of skill in the art should, inlight of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can bemade in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain alike or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention.

Example 1

Centella asiatica extract and Vitas vinifera seed extract were bothfound to promote endothelial tube disruption. Dihydroxymethylchromonewas found to thicken the epidermis. Magnolia grandiflora bark extractwas found to inhibit angiogenesis. Camellia sinensis havingepigallocatechin gallate was found to be a vasoconstricting agent onveins and small blood vessels such as arterioles, a capillaries, andvenules. Data not shown.

An in vivo study was performed on 36 female panelists between the agesof 18-65 to evaluate the ability of the combination of theabove-mentioned five ingredients to treat telangiectasias. Eachpanelists had mild to moderate telangiectasias. The study required 4visits to the testing facility over a 12 week period. On the first visit(baseline), a lab technician marked the area of interest (approximately5×5 cm²) on the panelist's legs using a skin marker. During all thevisits, panelists were visually graded by an expert grader for capillarycolor, capillary branching, visible erythema and dryness surrounding thespider veins and overall appearance of spider veins using a scale from 0to 5 (0=none, 5=severe). The grading was followed by taking a set ofphotographs of the test site using Fuji S2 digital camera. Thephotographs were analyzed for capillary length and capillary numberusing Image Pro software. Panelists were instructed to apply acomposition of the type described in Table 3 twice a day for 12 weeks tothe designated test site on one leg (the additional ingredients (i.e.,ingredients other than the five actives noted above) in the Table 3formulation are not believed to contribute to the data in Tables 1 and 2below). Panelists were refrained from applying any moisturizer on theirlegs 8 hours prior to their visit to the testing facility. Changes invisual grading scores and the image analysis data obtained at weeks 4, 8and 12 were compared to baseline using paired t-test. Statisticalsignificance was considered at p value≤0.05. Table 1 provides dateconcerning expert grading, and Table 2 provides data concerning imageanalysis.

TABLE 1 (Expert Grading) Mean Percent Improvement Compared to BaselineOver 12 Weeks [Percent of Panelists Showing Improvement] Spider VeinAttributes Week 4 Week 8 Week 12 Capillary Color 14%* 10%*  17%*Capillary Branching [44%] [53%] [56%] Overall Appearance [NS] [NS] [NS][NS] [NS] [NS] Visible Erythema [NS] [NS] [NS] Surrounding Spider [NS][NS] [NS] Veins Visible Dryness 83%** 94%** 100%** Surrounding Spider[83%] [100%] [100%] Veins *Statistically significant compared tobaseline at a 95% confidence level.; NS is not significant at 95%confidence level. **Based on N = 6 at baseline.

TABLE 2 (Image Analysis) Mean Percent Improvement Compared to BaselineOver 12 Weeks [Percent of Panelists Showing Improvement] Spider VeinAttributes Week 4 Week 8 Week 12 Capillary Length (mm) [NS] 11%* 12%*[NS] [69%] [72%] Capillary Number [NS] 15%* 13% [NS] [69%] [58%]*Statistically significant compared to baseline at a 95% confidencelevel.; NS is not significant at 95% confidence level.

TABLE 3¹ % Concentration Ingredient (by weight) Phase A Water 28.29SD-Alcohol 40B² 60 Pentylene Glycol 5 Ethoxydiglycol 1.5 Phase BMagnolia grandiflora bark extract³ 0.1 Centella asiatica extract⁴ 0.1Vitis vinifera seed extract⁵ 0.5 Caffeine 1 Argatensyl LS 9735⁶ 1Proteasyl TP POE LS 9818⁷ 1 Epigallocatechin gallate from Camelliasinensis 0.01 leaf extract⁸ Dihydroxy methylchromone⁹ 0.5 Phase CAristoflex AVC¹⁰ 1 ¹Can be prepared by adding all ingredients in phaseA, following by adding phase B ingredients, followed by adding phase Cingredients. One can heat phase A to 70-75° C. and then add phase B withmixing following by adding phase C with continuous mixing and cool themixture to room temperature (approximately 20-25° C.) and continuemixing until a uniform gel is obtained. ²Specially denatured (SD)alcohol is a mixture of ethanol with a denaturing agent (i.e.,denatonium benzoate). ³Sold by DSM (North America). It is extractobtained from the bark of Magnolia grandiflora. ⁴Sold by Bayer SanteFamiliale SAS (France) under the trade name TECA (Titrated Extract ofCentella Asiatica). Extract is obtained from the leaves of Centellaasiatica. ⁵Available from a wide range of sources (see CTFA). ⁶Sold byLaboratoires Serobiologiques (France). It is a mixture of water/Arganiaspinosa kernel extract/Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate/Carbomer. ⁷Sold by CognisCorporation, which is a part of BASF (USA). It is a protein derived fromthe pea plant. ⁸Sold by DSM (North America) under the trade nameTeavigo ®. Green tea extract that includes Epigallocatechin Gallate(EGCG). ⁹Sold by EMD Chemicals (USA) under the trade name of RonaCare ®Luremin ™. ¹⁰Sold by Clariant (USA). It is a synthetic polymer used as agelling agent for aqueous systems and as a texturizer and thickener foroil-in-water emulsions.

The spider vein formulation significantly reduced the capillary coloraround the spider veins at weeks 4, 8 and 12 compared to baseline. Thespider vein cream significantly reduced visible dryness around spiderveins (N=6 at baseline) at weeks 4, 8 and 12 compared to baseline. Thespider vein cream significantly reduced the capillary length and thecapillary number of spider veins at weeks 8 and 12 compared to baseline.

In addition to the above tests, a person having ordinary skill in theart could also use the testing vehicle in Tables 4 and 5 to determinethe effects of this combination of ingredients on telangiectasia.

TABLE 4* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Phase A Water q.s. to100 Xanthum gum 0.1 M-paraben 0.15 P-paraben 0.1 Citric acid 0.01 PhaseB Cetyl alcohol 4.0 Glyceryl stearate + PEG 100 4.0 Octyl palmitate 4.0Dimethicone 1.0 Tocopheryl acetate 0.2 Phase C Active Ingredients** 2.0*Sprinkle Xanthum gum in water and mix for 10 min. Subsequently, add allingredients in phase A and heat to 70-75° C. Add all items in phase B toseparate beaker and heat to 70-75° C. Mix phases A and B at 70-75° C.Continue mixing and allow composition to cool to 30° C. Subsequently,add phase C ingredient while mixing. **Any of the active ingredients (orcombination thereof) described in the specification can be used. Forinstance, the active ingredients can include Centella asiatica extract,Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract, Camellia sinensisextract, and/or Dihydroxy methylchromone, or any combinations thereof.Although the total amount of active ingredients in the Table 1formulation is 2% w/w, it is contemplated that the amount of activeingredients can be increased or decreased to achieve a desired result,where the water amount can be increased/decreased accordingly (e.g.,q.s.).

TABLE 5* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Phase A Water q.s. to100 M-paraben 0.2 P-paraben 0.1 Na2 EDTA 0.1 Shea butter 4.5 Petrolatum4.5 Glycerin 4.0 Propylene Glycol 2.0 Finsolve TN 2.0 Phase B Sepigel305 2.0 Phase C Active Ingredient(s)** 2.0 *Add ingredients in phase Ato beaker and heat to 70-75° C. while mixing. Subsequently, add thephase B ingredient with phase A and cool to 30° C. with mixing.Subsequently, add phase C ingredient while mixing. **Any of the activeingredients (or combination thereof) described in the specification canbe used. For instance, the active ingredients can include Centellaasiatica extract, Vitis vinifera seed extract, Magnolia bark extract,Camellia sinensis extract, and/or Dihydroxy methylchromone, or anycombinations thereof. Although the total amount of active ingredients inthe Table 1 formulation is 2% w/w, it is contemplated that the amount ofactive ingredients can be increased or decreased to achieve a desiredresult, where the water amount can be increased/decreased accordingly(e.g., q.s.).

Example 2 Additional Assays that can be Used to Test Compositions

The efficacy of the combination of ingredients disclosed throughout thespecification and claims can be determined by using the followingassays.

Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) Assay: An assay that measuresthe antioxidant activity of an ingredient or composition. In essence, itcan quantify the degree and length of time it takes to inhibit theaction of an oxidizing agent such as oxygen radicals that are known tocause damage cells (e.g., skin cells). The ORAC value of thecompositions of the present invention can be determined by methods knownto those of ordinary skill in the art (see U.S. Publication Nos.2004/0109905 and 2005/0163880; Cao et al. (1993)), all of which areincorporated by reference). In summary, the assay described in Cao etal. (1993) measures the ability of antioxidant compounds in testmaterials to inhibit the decline of B-phycoerythrm (B-PE) fluorescencethat is induced by a peroxyl radical generator, AAPH.

Erythema Assay: An assay to measure the reduction of skin redness can beevaluated using a Minolta Chromometer. Skin erythema may be induced byapplying a 0.2% solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate on the forearm of asubject. The area is protected by an occlusive patch for 24 hrs. After24 hrs, the patch is removed and the irritation-induced redness can beassessed using the a* values of the Minolta Chroma Meter. The a* valuemeasures changes in skin color in the red region. Immediately afterreading, the area is treated with a composition of the presentinvention. Repeat measurements are taken at regular intervals todetermine the formula's ability to reduce redness and irritation.

Skin Moisture/Hydration Assay: Skin moisture/hydration benefits can bemeasured by using impedance measurements with the Nova Dermal PhaseMeter. The impedance meter measures changes in skin moisture content.The outer layer of the skin has distinct electrical properties. Whenskin is dry it conducts electricity very poorly. As it becomes morehydrated increasing conductivity results. Consequently, changes in skinimpedance (related to conductivity) can be used to assess changes inskin hydration. The unit can be calibrated according to instrumentinstructions for each testing day. A notation of temperature andrelative humidity can also be made. Subjects can be evaluated asfollows: prior to measurement they can equilibrate in a room withdefined humidity (e.g., 30-50%) and temperature (e.g., 68-72° C.). Threeseparate impedance readings can be taken on each side of the face,recorded, and averaged. The T5 setting can be used on the impedancemeter which averages the impedance values of every five secondsapplication to the face. Changes can be reported with statisticalvariance and significance.

Skin Clarity and Reduction in Freckles and Age Spots Assay: Skin clarityand the reduction in freckles and age spots can be evaluated using aMinolta Chromometer. Changes in skin color can be assessed to determineirritation potential due to product treatment using the a* values of theMinolta Chroma Meter. The a* value measures changes in skin color in thered region. This is used to determine whether a composition is inducingirritation. The measurements can be made on each side of the face andaveraged, as left and right facial values. Skin clarity can also bemeasured using the Minolta Meter. The measurement is a combination ofthe a*, b, and L values of the Minolta Meter and is related to skinbrightness, and correlates well with skin smoothness and hydration. Skinreading is taken as above. In one non-limiting) aspect, skin clarity canbe described as L/C where C is chroma and is defined as (a²+b²)^(1/2).

Skin Dryness, Surface Fine Lines, Skin Smoothness, and Skin Tone Assay:Skin dryness, surface fine lines, skin smoothness, and skin tone can beevaluated with clinical grading techniques. For example, clinicalgrading of skin dryness can be determined by a five point standardKligman Scale: (0) skin is soft and moist; (1) skin appears normal withno visible dryness; (2) skin feels slightly dry to the touch with novisible flaking; (3) skin feels dry, tough, and has a whitish appearancewith some scaling; and (4) skin feels very dry, rough, and has a whitishappearance with scaling. Evaluations can be made independently by twoclinicians and averaged.

Clinical Grading of Skin Tone Assay: Clinical grading of skin tone canbe performed via a ten point analog numerical scale: (10) even skin ofuniform, pinkish brown color. No dark, erythremic, or scaly patches uponexamination with a hand held magnifying lens. Microtexture of the skinvery uniform upon touch; (7) even skin tone observed withoutmagnification. No scaly areas, but slight discolorations either due topigmentation or erythema. No discolorations more than 1 cm in diameter;(4) both skin discoloration and uneven texture easily noticeable. Slightscaliness. Skin rough to the touch in some areas; and (1) uneven skincoloration and texture. Numerous areas of scaliness and discoloration,either hypopigmented, erythremic or dark spots. Large areas of unevencolor more than 1 cm in diameter. Evaluations were made independently bytwo clinicians and averaged.

Clinical Grading of Skin Smoothness Assay: Clinical grading of skinsmoothness can be analyzed via a ten point analog numerical scale: (10)smooth, skin is moist and glistening, no resistance upon dragging fingeracross surface; (7) somewhat smooth, slight resistance; (4) rough,visibly altered, friction upon rubbing; and (1) rough, flaky, unevensurface. Evaluations were made independently by two clinicians andaveraged.

Skin Smoothness and Wrinkle Reduction Assay with Methods Disclosed inPackman et al. (1978): Skin smoothness and wrinkle reduction can also beassessed visually by using the methods disclosed in Packman et al.(1978). For example, at each subject visit, the depth, shallowness andthe total number of superficial facial lines (SFLs) of each subject canbe carefully scored and recorded. A numerical score was obtained bymultiplying a number factor times a depth/width/length factor. Scoresare obtained for the eye area and mouth area (left and right sides) andadded together as the total wrinkle score.

Skin Firmness Assay with a Hargens Ballistometer: Skin firmness can bemeasured using a Hargens ballistometer, a device that evaluates theelasticity and firmness of the skin by dropping a small body onto theskin and recording its first two rebound peaks. The ballistometry is asmall lightweight probe with a relatively blunt tip (4 square mm-contactarea) was used. The probe penetrates slightly into the skin and resultsin measurements that are dependent upon the properties of the outerlayers of the skin, including the stratum corneum and outer epidermisand some of the dermal layers.

Skin Softness/Suppleness Assay with a Gas Bearing Electrodynamometer:Skin softness/suppleness can be evaluated using the Gas BearingElectrodynamometer, an instrument that measures the stress/strainproperties of the skin. The viscoelastic properties of skin correlatewith skin moisturization. Measurements can be obtained on thepredetermined site on the cheek area by attaching the probe to the skinsurface with double-stick tape. A force of approximately 3.5 gm can beapplied parallel to the skin surface and the skin displacement isaccurately measured. Skin suppleness can then be calculated and isexpressed as DSR (Dynamic Spring Rate in gm/mm).

Appearance of Lines and Wrinkles Assay with Replicas: The appearance oflines and wrinkles on the skin can be evaluated using replicas, which isthe impression of the skin's surface. Silicone rubber like material canbe used. The replica can be analyzed by image analysis. Changes in thevisibility of lines and wrinkles can be objectively quantified via thetaking of silicon replicas form the subjects' face and analyzing thereplicas image using a computer image analysis system. Replicas can betaken from the eye area and the neck area, and photographed with adigital camera using a low angle incidence lighting. The digital imagescan be analyzed with an image processing program.

Surface Contour of the Skin Assay with a Profilometer/Stylus Method: Thesurface contour of the skin can be measured by using theprofilometer/Stylus method. This includes either shining a light ordragging a stylus across the replica surface. The vertical displacementof the stylus can be fed into a computer via a distance transducer, andafter scanning a fixed length of replica a cross-sectional analysis ofskin profile can be generated as a two-dimensional curve. This scan canbe repeated any number of times along a fix axis to generate a simulated3-D picture of the skin. Ten random sections of the replicas using thestylus technique can be obtained and combined to generate averagevalues. The values of interest include Ra which is the arithmetic meanof all roughness (height) values computed by integrating the profileheight relative to the mean profile height. Rt which is the maximumvertical distance between the highest peak and lowest trough, and Rzwhich is the mean peak amplitude minus the mean peak height. Values aregiven as a calibrated value in mm. Equipment should be standardizedprior to each use by scanning metal standards of know values. Ra Valuecan be computed by the following equation: R_(a)=Standardize roughness;l_(m)=the traverse (scan) length; and y=the absolute value of thelocation of the profile relative to the mean profile height (x-axis).

MELANODERM™ Assay: In other non-limiting aspects, the efficacy of thecompositions of the present invention can be evaluated by using a skinanalog, such as, for example, MELANODERM™. Melanocytes, one of the cellsin the skin analog, stain positively when exposed to L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), a precursor of melanin. The skin analog, MELANODERM™,can be treated with a variety of bases containing the compositions andwhitening agents of the present invention or with the base alone as acontrol. Alternatively, an untreated sample of the skin analog can beused as a control.

ORAC Assay: Oxygen Radical Absorption (or Absorbance) Capacity (ORAC) ofthe aromatic skin-active ingredients and compositions can also beassayed by measuring the antioxidant activity of such ingredients orcompositions. This assay can quantify the degree and length of time ittakes to inhibit the action of an oxidizing agent such as oxygenradicals that are known to cause damage cells (e.g., skin cells). TheORAC value of the aromatic skin-active ingredients and compositions canbe determined by methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art(see U.S. Publication Nos. 2004/0109905 and 2005/0163880; Cao et al.(1993)), all of which are incorporated by reference). In summary, theassay described in Cao et al. (1993) measures the ability of antioxidantcompounds in test materials to inhibit the decline of B-phycoerythrm(B-PE) fluorescence that is induced by a peroxyl radical generator,AAPH.

Matrix Metalloproteinase Enzyme Activity (MMP3; MMP9) Assay: An in vitromatrix metalloprotease (MMP) inhibition assay. MMPs are extracellularproteases that play a role in many normal and disease states by virtueof their broad substrate specificity. MMP3 substrates include collagens,fibronectins, and laminin; while MMP9 substrates include collagen VII,fibronectins and laminin. Using Colorimetric Drug Discovery kits fromBioMol International for MMP3 (AK-400) and MMP-9 (AK-410), this assay isdesigned to measure protease activity of MMPs using a thiopeptide as achromogenic substrate(Ac-PLG-[2-mercapto-4-methyl-pentanoyl]-LG-OC2H5)5,6. The MMP cleavagesite peptide bond is replaced by a thioester bond in the thiopeptide.Hydrolysis of this bond by an MMP produces a sulfhydryl group, whichreacts with DTNB [5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid), Ellman's reagent]to form 2-nitro-5-thiobenzoic acid, which can be detected by itsabsorbance at 412 nm (ε=13,600 M−1cm−1 at pH 6.0 and above 7).

* * *

All of the skin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods disclosedand claimed in this specification can be made and executed without undueexperimentation in light of the present disclosure. While theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods of this invention havebeen described in terms of particular embodiments, it will be apparentto those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods and in the steps or inthe sequence of steps of the method described herein without departingfrom the concept, spirit and scope of the invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of treating telangiectasia in asubject in need thereof comprising topically applying to skin of saidsubject in need of treatment of telangiectasia a composition comprisingeffective amounts of an alcoholic extract of Centella asiactica leaf andan aqueous extract of Vitis vinifera seed to disrupt endothelial tubesin skin.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is applied tospider veins.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition remainson the skin for at least 5 minutes after topical application.
 4. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the telangiectasia is present on facial skin,leg skin, ankle skin, or arm skin.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition is a cream, gel, or lotion.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition is an emulsion.
 7. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition further comprises a moisturization agent, a UVabsorbing agent, anti-oxidant, structuring agent, emulsifier, siliconecontaining compound, essential oil, thickening agent, and apreservative.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the compositioncomprises: 0.01 to 1% by weight of the alcoholic extract of Centellaasiatica leaf; and 0.01 to 1% by weight of the aqueous extract of Vitisvinifera seed.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the Centella asiaticaleaf extract comprises asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid,and wherein the Vitis vinifera seed extract comprises polyphenols.